Topu, Alfaz call for smoke-free Challenge Cup final

Bashundhara Kings captain Topu Barman has urged supporters to avoid a repeat of last season's smoke flare incident during the one-off Challenge Cup final against Mohammedan SC in Cumilla on Friday.

The issue occurred in last year's inaugural Challenge Cup final at the Bashundhara Kings Arena, when flares thrown onto the pitch forced a 10-minute halt to proceedings. Despite the disruption, Kings rallied from a goal down to beat Mohammedan 3-1, with Topu heading in the equaliser in the 73rd minute after Souleymane Diabate had given Mohammedan an early seventh-minute lead. Faisal Ahmed Fahim and Miguel Ferreira then struck to secure the season's first silverware for the Kings.

Speaking at the pre-final press conference at the BFF House on Wednesday, Topu stressed the importance of avoiding such incidents this time.

"You know the smoke flare is a part of the game which happens regularly in Europe. But in Bangladesh, punishments have already been given for that incident. As a player, I hope such things won't happen again, and we [Kings] also won't repeat it," Topu said.

"Rather, we want to play a peaceful game which is better for both teams."

Mohammedan coach Alfaz Ahmed echoed the Kings skipper's sentiments, calling for a trouble-free final at Mohammedan's home venue in Cumilla.

"Actually, no clubs except Bashundhara Kings have their own home venue -- others just play at token home grounds. We hope such an incident won't happen again because we have already moved on from the past," Alfaz said.

"The responsibility to prevent such events lies with those in charge of security."